Police on High Alert as Bandits Threaten Another Oyo Community Less Than a Week After Deadly Attack

Residents of Ikoyi-Ile in Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State, are on edge after two handwritten notes allegedly from bandits threatened an attack on the community set for January 20.

The notes, written in both Yoruba and English, were reportedly left at the front and rear of a residential building. Neither note contained names or addresses.

The Oyo State Police Command confirmed the situation. Police Public Relations Officer DSP Olayinka Ayanlade said the individual who found the notes is being debriefed as part of a full-scale investigation into their origin and intent.

According to DSP Ayanlade, the Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna, has activated intelligence and tactical units to prevent any disturbance. Security measures in Ikoyi-Ile and surrounding communities include 24-hour patrols, stop-and-search operations, and strategic area monitoring.

“The Area Command has been directed to maintain constant supervision and continuous patrols,” the police statement said. Residents have been urged to stay vigilant, report suspicious activity, and continue their daily routines without panic.

Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone Eleven, Fred Ekokotu, and the Area Commander of Ogbomoso visited the community to assess the security situation.

The alert comes weeks after a deadly attack on the National Park Service office at Oloka Community, also in Oriire LGA, which killed five forest rangers. Reports indicate the attackers, armed with AK-47 rifles, also seized rifles and motorcycles. Investigations suggest the attack could have been retaliation against recent arrests of suspected bandits by the rangers.

Police assured the public that every precaution is in place to protect lives and property and emphasized that anyone responsible for the threat will face legal consequences.